For the ASICS Manchester Half 2026 we have a wonderful team of ERDINGER pacers ready to help you achieve your 13.1-mile goals. Our friendly team of 36 ERDINGER pacers come from a wide range of backgrounds and abilities, but all share a common love of running and the running community.
Whether you are taking on your first half marathon or accustomed to this distance, pacers allow you to concentrate on your running while they take care of the pacing, letting you enjoy the 13.1-mile course.
If you have a time in mind, have a look at the pacer chart below for the set times our ERDINGER pacers will be aiming to complete the event in. It’s likely that the pacer will complete the course at a consistent pace, which you can also see below. If you’re still feeling great towards the end, you’re more than welcome to run ahead and secure that PB!
Look out for the flags (right) whilst in the start pen to find your correct pacer.
We’ve also highlighted some of the ERDINGER pacers who will be out on course with you, check out their stories below.
*Please note this does not include the full list of ERDINGER Pacers. Refer to the chart above for the full list.
MEET YOUR ERDINGER PACERS
Name
David Morris
Time
01:15:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
I have run a lot of half marathons, too many to even count now, 50+ easily. I’ve been the official Manchester Half pacer once before but I’ve paced the Manchester Marathon 3 times but I pace quite regularly in an unofficial capacity for my club mates.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
I wanted to be an official pacer as I’ve done it numerous times for friends and club mates and I saw how it helped them achieve their goals. I wanted to upscale that and rather than just helping 1 person in 1 race, I could help multiple people at the same time. The best part is seeing the faces of people who cross the finish line with you, it’s a great mixture of disbelief and joy.
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
The way I prepare is probably different to the rest of the field as I need to make sure that I’m very comfortable at that pace, so I need to be fitter as I’m not racing. I need to be able to talk to offer any mid race advice, check my pace constantly to make sure that I’m not straying too far from the target time. I can’t be going too fast and “cooking” the people I’m trying to help.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
I paced the Manchester Marathon this year and I had the eventual 3rd, 4th and 5th placed lady in my pace group. I’ll never be challenging for big events like that but it was very satisfying to think that I played a small part in helping those ladies achieve their goals on the day.
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
I do feel the pressure when it comes to pacing, more so than if it was me that was racing. If I was to mess up my own race, I only have to myself to blame. However, in a big event I could have 30 or 40 people relying on my even pacing to get them to their goals, most people will have been training for 10 or 12 weeks for this day, so the pressure can really build. I try to handle this by taking myself off 30 mins before a race and having a little chat with myself while I warm up. I carry a pace band during the race to remind me of the splits at certain intervals and I like to have a run through of that, trying to memorise and visualise where I need to be at certain points in the race.
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
My one piece of advice to someone in my pace group would be, have faith in the process, stay behind me and use me as a target for as long as you can. If you feel great at 10 miles then maybe that’s when you can go off and smash that target, but don’t let me come back past you!
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
I’ve run the Manchester Half a few times now and I’ve always loved the energy of the crowd. They can really make the difference when you are struggling. The course is flat and can be really fast on the right day.
What does running mean to you?
I love running and the people involved in the sport. We aren’t elites and most of us will never “win” an event but we still get out there to achieve our own personal goals, whatever that may be.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
My celebration after the race will be very quiet as I have to start resting up for my next event, I’ll be running Chicago Marathon the weekend after.
Name
Thabang Letheo
Time
01:30:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
I have completed over 50 half marathons since 2010. I have paced 15 half marathons. I have paced 3 Manchester Half Marathons and this year's race will be my fourth time pacing the Manchester Half Marathon.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
The opportunity to give back to other runners by using my experience gained over the years to help them to achieve their goals. The best part is seeing the joy that other runners experience when they achieve their goals and knowing that I played a small part in them achieving their targets. The most important part of pacing is helping other runners to achieve what they previously thought was unachievable.
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
I usually prepare the same way I would prepare for a normal race. A variety of different runs ranging from a long run, a tempo run, speed work and recovery runs.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
When I paced sub 3:00 for the Manchester Marathon in 2025 and several runners came to me at the finish where they told me that I helped them to run a sub 3:00 marathon for the first time and they expressed their gratitude to me by thanking me.
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
Yes I do, however I use the pressure positively during my training months to provide me with the encouragement to train as hard as I can so that I can deliver effectively on race day.
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
Try to incorporate some speed sessions in your training where you run a small fraction faster than the target pace on race day which is 4:15/km or 6:51/mile this will ensure that when you run the target pace on race day it will be comfortable.
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
The Manchester Half Marathon was the first large mass half marathon that I paced in the UK. I had previously paced smaller races in the UK. It is a race which is truly special to me as I am a huge Manchester United fan and the race starts close to Old Trafford, the home of Man United.
What does running mean to you?
Running is a special part of my life. It is a sport which has helped me to become more disciplined and focused. It is a sport which has moulded my character in an extremely positive way.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
I will celebrate by having a big lunch, a drink and reminiscing on my 4 years as a pacer for the Manchester Half.
Name
Dan Akinson
Time
01:35:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
I have completed 10 half marathons and paced 2.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
I really wanted to enjoy a half, both the run and the atmosphere without the pressure of hitting a time or spending time in the pain cave! What's great about pacing is taking care of your little group. Knowing that you will pull people along to achieve something that will make their day and make them proud.
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
I continue with my usual training but will ensure I'm consistent with my long runs for the month leading up to it.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
Last year, a guy in my group called Martin, told me he was undergoing chemo whilst training for the half and it was the training that kept him going. He was a great guy and really inspiring. We ran together the whole way, before he took off with 2k to go!
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
A bit on the day, but as long as you know your checkpoints it should ok. I have them written on piece of laminated card telling me my times at 5k, 10k, 15, 20k - the watch always falls out of sync with the markers so don't rely on that.
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
Run 5 metres in front of me - it's less crowded.
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
I've never actually given it a full effort. I've only ran it tempo or paced it. When the pacing stops then next time I'll have to give it some.
What does running mean to you?
It's what I do. I've been running for nearly 10 years. It's where my friend groups are, it's my de-stress, a way to feel good about myself - I really enjoy it.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
I'll run home!
Name
Shafiq Khan
Time
01:40:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
I've completed 96 half marathons and paced 15 of them.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
Having run for over 20 years, I feel I've achieved everything I set out to in the sport, so pacing is my way of giving something back to the running community. The best part is the sense of achievement you get from helping others reach their goals and all the thanks and hugs at the finish line make it worthwhile.
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
Most of my long runs are done at the target race pace, so I get plenty of practise hitting that exact rhythm before event day.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
It's always the moments after crossing the finish line: the thanks and hugs from runners who've hit their target time. Knowing you've played a part in helping someone achieve their goal is a real highlight every time.
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
I did when I first started pacing, there's always that little worry about not completing it within the specified time. These days, I remind myself of all the training I've put in to prepare, which helps settle any nerves.
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
Just stick with me for the duration of the race - I'll try and keep the pace as con. If you're still feeling strong in the latter stages, particularly the last 2km, that's the time to push on for a faster finish.
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
I've paced the Manchester Half Marathon for the last five years and thoroughly enjoyed every one. It's a fast course with a fantastic atmosphere, and the crowd support is amazing.
What does running mean to you?
Beyond the obvious health and fitness benefits, running is a great stress reliever. After a tough day at work, it's the perfect chance to let your mind wander and switch off for a while.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
I'm always looking forward to that recovery shake at the finish line - ha!
Name
Naz Zameer
Time
01:45:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
I have completed over 60/70 half marathons and have been a pacer for the Manchester half for over 12 years.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
I became a pacer when the position was offered to me by the organisers because I wanted to give back to the community that made me a runner and supported me through my journey.
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
I run between 20/30 miles a week and prepare myself during long runs over the weekend with adding parkruns on Saturdays.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
I have done over 730 parkruns and over 300 volunteering positions at Alexander Parkrun.
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
While pacing the joy is when the runners come over to you hug you thank you for getting them a pb and getting them over the line, it’s a different feeling and no pressure at all just go out and enjoy and do what you have trained for.
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
I always tell the runners just be yourself and soak in the atmosphere and smile.
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
Over 12 years of pacing has been a blessing me.
What does running mean to you?
Running has made me a better version of myself and kept me motivated.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
Once I crossed the finish line nobody is going to take that smile off my face.
Name
Gareth (Gaz) Morris
Time
01:50:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
Around 20+. I've paced 6 HM's.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
Running to a specific pace is a great discipline but seeing people's elation after achieving their goal is priceless.
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
Before pacing an event, I will do a few sessions where I dial into the pace. This allows me to get a feel for it so I'm not too reliant on the clock during the race.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
A lady gave me big hug after pacing Manchester Marathon. It was her first race back after giving birth and she was delighted to grab a new PB.
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
The pressure is all part of the buzz. It's not your race anymore, you have to step-up and be counted. I once paced a 10K event and achieved a PB at the same time. I'd rather burn than let anyone down.
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
Ignore your watch pace, the GPS will be off. Leave the timing to me and enjoy the streets of Manchester. Also, don't trip the pacer.
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
It's always a mega atmosphere and beautiful, crisp, sunny morning.
What does running mean to you?
Running is life.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
It will have to be a pint of Fog then meet up with my family to soak up the atmosphere. Manchester is always buzzing on race day.
Name
Rachel Alves
Time
01:55:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
Around 30 half marathons completed and 15 paced.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
I had always found pacers helpful to me at races to keep me on track, and it was a new challenge to work on and I love being part of a team. I enjoy meeting and chatting to runners before and during the event, keeping them positive and encouragement. There is nothing better than seeing people achieve their goals and a big smile at the finish line.
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
I run regularly and I would train the same for the half marathon distance but do pace practice to work on the consistency of pace throughout the distance for the time that I am doing.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
Seeing every runner cross that finish line every time is still really special, knowing that you may have helped play a small part. I pace very regularly for events across the North West so its really great when you see people again and they say - you helped me do my first half or achieved a PB. People have recognised me as at parkruns as an event pacer and stopped to chat & tell me about the race we did together or chatted at which is always lovely. I live locally on the Manchester Half route so the best bit is always getting waves and cheers from friends and family on the route in Sale and getting a hug from the children.
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
Oh definitely there is pressure, you are human. For me its about trying to make sure runners have an overall great experience, and I try and do this through chatting, encouragement, talking about the course ahead and check ins on the distance progress as well as the pacing time itself. It is also really important for pacers to be able to run comfortably at the time they're pacing so you can focus on supporting the runners.
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
I would say focus on enjoying the experience and the day - you've done the training, make sure you are hydrated and fuelled well and let us take care of the pacing for you.
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
I have done the Manchester half 5 times, and pacing for 3 of those. Before I started running, as we live on the route, the neighbours would get together to cheer on all the runners so Manchester Half has always been a really memorable day.
What does running mean to you?
Running creates memories. I can look back at runs in particular places and remember them in a way that's different from simply visiting those places—it feels like running adds another dimension to the experience.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
I will be cheering some friends in across the finish line and then meeting up with friends and family after.
Name
Angelique Bueler
Time
02:00:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
I've completed 55 half marathons and have now paced 28 of them.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
Running is one of the most accessible and rewarding sports there is. Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply aiming to reach the finish line, every runner has a goal worth celebrating. I love the excitement on the start line and the sense of possibility that comes with it. Being able to help runners break the race into manageable sections, keep them on pace, and hopefully make their day a little easier and more memorable is incredibly rewarding. If my small contribution helps someone achieve their goal and gives them the confidence to keep running in the future, then that's the best part of pacing.
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
Pacing requires a slightly different mindset because you're not just running for yourself—you're responsible for helping a whole group of runners achieve their goal. That changes how I prepare. Firstly, I make sure I'm significantly fitter than the pace I'll be leading, so I have plenty of energy to encourage runners throughout the race and can adapt if plans change. Secondly, staying injury-free is a priority. When you've committed to pacing, you want to honour that commitment, so sensible training, strength work and looking after your health become just as important as the running itself.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
There have been so many memorable moments over the years, but one that has always stayed with me involved a young runner in her twenties who joined my pace group with an ambitious goal. She had trained well, and as we chatted throughout the race it was clear how much it meant to her. The final miles were tough, but she stayed determined and crossed the finish line on target.
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
I wouldn't call it pressure—I would call it excitement. Before every race there's a real sense of anticipation about what's ahead. I'm fortunate to have paced many events now, so I trust my preparation and experience. Once we're on the start line, it's simply about settling into the pace, chatting with runners, and enjoying the journey together. Seeing everyone work towards their goals and sharing in the atmosphere is one of the best parts of the day, and it's a privilege to be a small part of so many individual achievements.
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
My mantra is simple: one step at a time, lift your feet up, and breathe. It sounds straightforward, but those three things can make a huge difference. Take the race one step at a time rather than worrying about how far there is still to go. Stay in the moment, soak up the atmosphere, and break the course down into small, manageable goals. Remember to lift your feet properly too—it helps maintain good running form and reduces the chance of losing focus or tripping when you're getting tired. Finally, don't forget to breathe. In the latter stages of the race it's easy to take shallow breaths, but focusing on deep, controlled breathing from the diaphragm can help you relax, reset, and keep moving forward. One final tip: if you're struggling in the later miles, try not to let the pacer flag disappear from view. I can't tell you how many runners have told me afterwards that even though they drifted back, they kept the flag in sight and still achieved their goal.
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
I have a long history with the ASICS Manchester Half. As well as running it myself when chasing a fast time, I've also paced the event every year. If I were aiming for a personal best, this is the race I'd choose. The course is fast and flat, the organisation is excellent, there are no bottlenecks, the crowd support is fantastic, and the weather is usually ideal for running—cool enough to perform well without being cold. It's a race I always look forward to coming back to.
What does running mean to you?
Running creates memories. I can look back at runs in particular places and remember them in a way that's different from simply visiting those places—it feels like running adds another dimension to the experience.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
The best part is celebrating with the runners who have shared the journey. We usually take photos together, swap stories, and celebrate everyone's achievements.
Name
Chris Peachy
Time
02:15:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
Approximately 90 half marathons completed, my first one was in 2004. I have paced 4 half marathons, all in Leeds.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
I am a regular run leader with my running club, Chorlton Runners and have really enjoyed meeting and encouraging fellow runners. I have led over 300 runs. I have also regularly paced at parkruns as well, and really enjoyed this. I get nearly as much satisfaction from helping others to hit their goals as I do from completing a good run myself. It's great when you meet someone after the run and they tell you that they've achieved a pb!
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
In terms of preparation, I will do a number of runs at the particular pace I need to run at, in this case 10.17mm and will often do these when leading runs with my club. I will always choose a pace that is comfortable for me to run. When I first started running many years ago, I ran mostly on my own but now enjoy more and find it easier to run with others.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
My most memorable moment of pacing was when I paced my first half, 2 hours at Leeds in 2013. A large group of people ran with me, and pretty much all of them went on to get good times, some of which were pb's. The other pacer had to drop out because of injury, which meant a lot of responsibility for my first half pacing but it was a great success, and a lot of people thanked me.
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
I do feel some pressure as a pacer and don't want to let the runners down. I make sure that I train well, and feel confident with the pace required. I am now retired, having been a social worker for many years, which could be very stressful. I meditate regularly and also practice yoga, which support my wellbeing and help me to manage the challenges that life brings.
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
My number one piece of advice for runners in my pacing group is not to go off too fast, to relax and to enjoy the run.
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
I have run the Asics Manchester Half 4 or 5 times previously, the last time being 2019. It is a local run for me, so I know the area well, and it is always well organised and supported. I love the part that goes through Chorlton, which is where I live.
What does running mean to you?
Running is my favourite type of exercise, and I usually run 3 or 4 times weekly. I have been running for about 25 years, and during that time have completed 7 marathons, and many halfs and 10ks as well as over 300 parkruns. It supports my physical and mental health, and has led to me meeting lots of fellow runners, particularly since joining Chorlton Runners 10 years ago. It is a very sociable activity, and I have made some good friends through running. My partner also runs and it is an important part of our lives.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
I will be going to the Bowling Green pub in Chorlton, where my running club will be holding an after race party, as many people from the club will be running, and I will have a celebratory drink or two.
Name
Craig Mitchell
Time
02:30:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
I haven’t counted how many half’s I’ve completed and I’ve only paced 1.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
It’s great fun chatting with people and the best thing is getting them to their goal.
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
I will do a lot of half marathon training runs at the pace to make sure I’m on time.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
I love seeing peoples faces change when they see the finish line and they know they can do it. My favourite thing was when my wife mentioned I had paced a marathon at work, it turned out I had encouraged a colleague’s daughter who had run with me for a while. That was so lovely to hear.
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
I do love the pressure and watch watching. But knowing people are relying on me makes me take it very seriously. Even though on the outside I’m looking like I’m just having fun.
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
Don’t run off, even though it feels like it’s too slow, I will finish on time.
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
I’ve only run it once while pacing and loved it.
What does running mean to you?
It’s my escape from the world and helps press the reset button.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
A nice cold Erdinger and some unhealthy food.
Name
Gina Mahlangu
Time
02:45:00
How many half marathons have you completed, and how many have you paced?
I have run many that I cannot count and paced more than 20 at the least.
What made you want to become a pacer, and what’s the best part about helping others hit their goals?
My running journey has been supported by pacers in the past, watching the discipline, the sheer pleasure of running in the group and support given to runners, that inspired me to become a pacer. For some runners, they use pacers to achieve a certain distance and push their limits, its the joy I see on people's faces for what may seem like a small victory to others, the shift in the mindset.
How do you prepare for half marathon pacing? For example, do you have to prepare differently than the rest of the field?
The difficult part when running a race, generally, is the manoeuvring between people, so, I book races, where I use the pacing wristband and practice my pace, making sure I also practice hydrating in motion.
What is the most rewarding or memorable moment you’ve experienced while pacing? Any favourite stories from the road?
In 2023 whilst pacing the Manchester Half , it was my Mum's birthday, she managed to ring me during the race, which obviously interfered with our music, the crowd, decided to have her on a video call to sing her a birthday song 🙂
Do you feel any pressure being a pacer? If so, how do you manage that?
It's more of a sense of responsibility for me, knowing that runners depend on me, not only to cross the finish line, but also for information on running and other subjects; I try and be well-informed on many running-related issues. If it happens that I experience physical discomfort, I keep a smile and try and not look like my problems... LOL
If someone is running in your pacer group on event day, what is the number one piece of advice you would give them?
Listen to your body, enjoy the race and book your next race when you get home.
What is your personal history with the ASICS Manchester Half?
I've run the race 3-times now, the people in Manchester are always warm and that is why I keep on coming back.
What does running mean to you?
It gives me a sense of purpose, achievement and has made me relentless.
How do you plan on celebrating after crossing that ASICS Manchester Half finish line?
A cold cider with other running friends, taking pictures with my medal, posting on the socials and taking my medal to work on Tuesday.
